Types of Orange Orchids

Orange orchids are relatively rare, which makes them especially desirable.

Orchids are flowering plants, belonging to the Orchidaceae family, with more than 28,000 known species available. Their blooms come in a rainbow of colors; however, orange is widely sought after since it's one of the rarest colors to find. Several orchid species can grow outdoors in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6 through 10, but most prefer to be grown indoors as a houseplant, where environmental conditions are more suitable.

Oncidium Orchid

Oncidium is a popular houseplant species of orchid, commonly known as "dancing dolls." The hybrid variety "Vanda" produces 2-to-4 inch orange blooms, sometimes ranging in color from yellowish-orange to red. They thrive well in temperatures between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit and bright light from an east-facing window.

Cattleya Orchid

Cattleya orchids bloom once a year, with flowers lasting for four-to-six weeks. They are often used in floral settings, such as corsages and bouquets. Preforming well as houseplants, Cattleyas require more light than other orchids. They are best placed in front of a south- or west-facing window that has a sheer curtain to shade the sun. Cattleya aurantica varieties produce flowers that are vibrant orange in color.

Phalaenopsis Orchid

Phalaenopsis orchids originally only had flowers of white and pink, but as a result of hybridization are now available in orange. They are commonly known as "moth orchids" and have long, arching stems, topped with flowers that last for several months. They adapt well to most indoor home conditions and prefer light from an east-facing window.

Epidendrum Orchid

Epidendrum orchids, also known as "Reed Orchid," "Star Orchid" or "Crucifix Orchid," are a favorite choice of beginners because they are easy to grow. They are often treated as a houseplant but are capable of growing outdoors where temperatures don't fall below 25 degrees Fahrenheit. There are about 1,100 species of orchids within the Epidendrum group; Epidendrum randicans produces orange-colored blooms.

About the Author

Dannielle Doyle is an award-winning horticulturalist and garden writer whose work has appeared in publications such as the "Bryan Times" newspaper, the "San Francisco Chronicle" and "Green Profits" magazine. Doyle is a certified Ohio State University master gardener and holds a degree in landscape technologies.